Why Did Nick Reiner’s Lawyer Alan Jackson Resign During Murder Hearing?

Hollywood has been shaken by the shocking murder case of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, with allegations pointing toward their son, Nicholas Reiner. The case took another dramatic turn when Nick’s attorney, Alan Jackson, unexpectedly stepped down from representing him, just days before his scheduled arraignment, raising fresh questions about the unfolding legal proceedings.

Alan Jackson spoke to reporters outside the courthouse on January 7, 2026, confirming his resignation but declined to provide specific details. He cited legal and ethical restrictions, stating:

“Circumstances beyond our control and, more importantly, beyond Nick’s control have dictated that it’s made it impossible to continue our representation.”

Jackson emphasized that his decision was not due to a lack of confidence in Nick’s defense. His team had previously concluded that Nick Reiner was “not guilty of murder” under California law. However, he did not elaborate on the legal factors influencing his departure.

Following Jackson’s resignation, the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office will now take over the case, with Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greener assigned as Nick Reiner’s new counsel. During a brief courtroom appearance, Nick, in jail attire, had his arraignment postponed and is now expected to formally enter a plea on February 23, 2026. Deputy Public Defender Ricardo Garcia described the case as “an unimaginable tragedy” and urged the public to exercise patience and compassion as proceedings continue.

Nick Reiner faces two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, which could result in life imprisonment without parole if convicted. Prosecutors allege the killings followed escalating personal and mental health struggles, supported by cellphone tracking data and reports of a heated argument with his father at a recent family gathering.

Alan Jackson is a prominent U.S. criminal defense attorney, known for representing high-profile clients such as Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, and Karen Read. A former senior prosecutor with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Jackson has cited Rob Reiner’s film A Few Good Men as an inspiration for pursuing a career in law.